In this series, BAZAAR’s Multiplatform Beauty Director speaks to inspiring people in the world of wellbeing about the routines and rituals that work for them. Hada Akrim – A facial therapist who combines holistic and cutting edge techniques based on an inner health philosophy honed through skin treatments.
Spend an hour in Hada Akrim’s care and it’s clear she’s no ordinary beauty therapist. A skin magician, Akrim uses meticulous massage and ritualistic tools to leave skin looking far brighter and firmer with her “Minimal by Hada” facial. But it’s not just on the surface; her deep consultations and insight into inflammation are reflected in the holistic advice she gives, helping you maintain your results. The more clients she sees, the more she sees patterns between what goes into your body and what shows up on your skin, because she believes “it all starts from within.”
So how does this apply to her own lifestyle? “It’s about learning how your skin responds,” she says. “For example, I’m prone to acne, so I learned from an early age that diet and habits can make a big difference. I also suffer from migraines and breakouts around my menstrual cycle, so a hormone-balancing diet and taking certain supplements have really helped me.”
Here, Akrim shares the wellness habits and daily routines she’s honed to keep her feeling (and looking) her best.
On the true meaning of “self-care”…
For me, self-care means taking a step back. As a working full-time mom, whenever I had free time in my schedule, I used to feel guilty for doing things that make me happy instead of being productive or making time for my kids. But now, I realize it’s really important to just check in with myself, whether that’s booking a workout, sitting at a cafe and reading a book, or going for a walk.
As for her non-negotiable morning routine…
I have two kids, so if I want to have some time for myself, I make sure I wake up before them. I try to wake up around 5:15 and start by hydrating with hot water, lemon and apple cider vinegar. This is one of my absolute must-dos. I’ve been doing it for years and it really helps with digestion. After that, I go for a HIIT workout or do yoga or pilates at home. Then I usually have breakfast. It’s either oatmeal or a protein smoothie packed with healthy fats and protein, or porridge with Greek yogurt. Then I shower and do my skincare routine.
On her skincare routine and favorite tools…
In the morning, I focus on protecting and nourishing my skin. While I wash my face, I use my hands to do a de-flush massage to improve lymphatic drainage, making sure all my lymph nodes are stimulated. For this, I use Dior La Mousse Off/On, which leaves my skin smooth, supple and hydrated. Another staple of mine is Dior Capture Totale Le Serum, which is packed with ceramides that help give my skin structure and nourishment so I can get right to the SPF protection. Currently, I’m using Skinceuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF 50.
Dior La Mousse Off/On Foaming Cleanser
Dior Capture Totale Serum
Skinceuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF50
For my evening skincare routine, I prioritise balancing and rejuvenating skincare as my skin resets overnight. I like to deep cleanse and then use nourishing products. I’m obsessed with the Dior Prestige Midnight Balm. It has a fantastic formula with ceramides and peptides and I wake up the next morning with skin that is literally glowing.
A staple tool in my skincare routine is the Gua Sha. I often use it in the evening to improve circulation and release tension and fascial contractions. It also really improves the quality of my sleep. Another tool I really swear by is the Current Body LED face mask. Red light therapy has so many amazing benefits for the skin. It’s a strong anti-inflammatory, helps build collagen and elastin, and is relaxing.
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
On her daily diet and star supplements…
Honestly, I feel that beautiful skin starts with nourishing your body from the inside out. What you eat has a huge impact on how you look and feel, so eating a balanced diet is key, focusing on healthy fats, colorful veggies, good protein, and high-fiber carbohydrates. I’ve also found that getting enough protein in my meals helps me avoid snacking.
I add a scoop of Form Nutrition protein powder to my breakfast smoothie or porridge. Protein powders often make me feel bloated, but this is very refreshing. I also take Seed probiotics and Vida Glow liquid collagen every day. Collagen is great for thickening the dermis, which not only improves the skin, but also the joints.
Vida Glow Collagen Liquid Advanced Sachet
My favorite dinner is grilled salmon with quinoa and asparagus or broccoli. For lunch I like chicken salad. When I’m on the go, I find Atis to be a great healthy takeout option.
I try to have one cup of coffee a day after breakfast. I used to have an oatmilk latte, but have gone back to a flat white with full fat milk, which has helped a lot with my blood sugar spikes. I like to have matcha around 4pm, especially if I’m working late. Matcha Union is my favorite, and I drink it with just hot water.
On prioritizing training and bodywork…
I go to F45 Training because there is a class near my house at 5.45am that only lasts 45 minutes, giving me enough time to get home before the kids wake up. I try to alternate this with my home exercises. I also love going to Pilates by Bryony classes; I alternate between Pilates, a breathwork class and a sound bath, which helps me start my day feeling super relaxed but ready to go.
I also walk to work and leave the therapy room when I have time to get some movement and sunlight, making sure to walk at least 10,000 steps.
My favorite treatments are deep tissue body massages, including the scalp, or full body lymphatic drainage massages. I go to Ricari Studios.
As for her restorative evening routine…
I try to do my skincare routine as soon as possible after I get my kids to bed. I start by dry brushing my body, then I shower and use my skincare products. If I start early, I can literally get through every step.
Slip Sleep Mask
Then I like to relax with a cup of peppermint tea and a book on skincare. I’ve started sleeping with a silk eye mask from Slip – it sits really comfortably over the eyes and isn’t too heavy.
Finally, I also take magnesium, which has significantly improved the quality of my sleep – not only do I fall asleep easier, but I stay asleep deeper and wake up feeling refreshed.
